Student Success Studio at PDC

Student Success Studio supports achievement and belonging at the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus

For students at the California State University, San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus (PDC), the Student Success Studio (S3) has become a vital source of academic support and connection.

More than a physical space, the S3 plays a key role in helping students navigate college life, stay on track academically, and feel a sense of belonging on campus. By offering multiple services in one accessible and welcoming location, the S3 addresses the unique needs of PDC students, many of whom are first-generation college students, transfers or working adults balancing multiple responsibilities.

“The S3 is more than just a place to study – it’s a welcoming space where I feel like I belong,” said Jasmine Marin, psychology major. “Through mentoring and spending time there, I’ve realized we’re more alike than different and have built meaningful connections with students, staff and faculty. Being part of the S3 has helped me grow both personally and academically, and it’s a space where I feel supported and connected.”

Students use the S3 to study independently, collaborate with classmates, meet with student mentors and tutors, receive writing support across disciplines, and participate in workshops focused on academic and personal growth. Students can schedule appointments or drop in, making support flexible and accessible.

The Student Mentoring Program at the S3 fosters the success of first year undergraduate students through peer-to-peer programs that encourage academic excellence, campus connectedness and engagement, and professional development. Students have the opportunity to talk through their college experiences, gain access to campus resources, develop goal setting and time management skills, ask questions, engage in non-academic activities, and much more with peers who have successfully navigated their first year of college. Tutors are there to support students in the available subjects/courses offered during the semester.

For students balancing coursework with jobs and family responsibilities, the convenience of the S3 is especially meaningful.

“The Student Success Studio was intentionally designed to provide accessible, personalized support built into their campus experience – a place where students feel seen, supported and empowered to achieve their goals.”

Amanda Rice director of CSUSB’s Academic Centers for Excellence

“We know many of our Palm Desert Campus students are balancing work, family and academic responsibilities,” said Amanda Rice, director of CSUSB’s Academic Centers for Excellence. “The Student Success Studio was intentionally designed to provide accessible, personalized support built into their campus experience – a place where students feel seen, supported and empowered to achieve their goals.”

Staff members emphasize a student-centered approach that prioritizes relationships and individualized support. By taking time to understand students’ challenges and goals, student mentors and tutors help them build confidence and develop strategies that extend beyond the classroom.

“The space we’ve created in the S3 makes a real difference every day. When students walk through our doors, they feel welcomed, valued and supported.”

Marilyn Lua Coordinator of the Student Success Studio

“The space we’ve created in the S3 makes a real difference every day,” said Marilyn Lua, coordinator of the Student Success Studio. “When students walk through our doors, they feel welcomed, valued and supported. That sense of belonging empowers them to engage, build confidence, reach important milestones and stay on track toward graduation. We are dedicated to guiding each student toward their full potential and long-term success.”

The open and welcoming design of the S3 also encourages peer connection, which many students say is just as impactful as academic support. Group study sessions and informal conversations help students feel connected to the campus community.

“The atmosphere in the S3 is calm, comforting and reliable,” said Lara Spence, an English graduate student. “University life can often feel fast-paced and stressful, but the S3 provides a place to slow down, focus and recharge. It is important to have a space like the S3 on campus because it offers a safe and supportive environment where students can escape the chaos, take care of themselves and feel grounded.”

The S3 reflects CSUSB’s broader commitment to educational equity and access in the Coachella Valley. By ensuring students at PDC have comprehensive support services close to home, the university continues to remove barriers to higher education and promote student achievement.

For many Coyotes, the S3 has become an essential part of their college experience – a place where support leads to progress, progress leads to persistence, and persistence leads to graduation.

Learn more about the Student Success Studio

Cal State San Bernardino, set at the foothills of the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains, is a vibrant hub of education and culture in Inland Southern California. The university offers more than 70 traditional baccalaureate and master’s degree programs, education credential and certificate programs, and a doctoral program, all housed within five academic colleges and the Palm Desert Campus.

Not only is a degree from CSUSB affordable and attainable, it is also a pathway to a brighter future. Ranked No. 2 nationally for social mobility by the Wall Street Journal, CSUSB helps students rise to great opportunities, securing high-paying jobs while keeping costs low.

The university is consistently recognized for its academic excellence, affordability and commitment to empowering students and communities to achieve their fullest potential.